On Arthur’s Day it was The Bull’s Night

Co-Author Tommy Conlon and rugby legend Mick Galwey led proceedings and speaking to a 200 strong audience at last night’s launch ‘Gaillimh’ regaled those present with a number of rugby stories featuring John. He also sought to clarify that it was in fact Hayes’ weight that saw him move from second row to prop – “because no-one could lift him!”, he said.

Not known for his speeches, John Hayes eventually held the microphone but not for long ! John warmly acknowledged the support of his wife Fiona, his children Sally, Roisin and Bill, all his family, his many friends and fellow rugby players & coaches throughout his illustrious career.He also thanked co-author Tommy Conlon and his agent John Baker of BSMG for getting the book into production and print by publishers Simon & Schuster. “Many an hour at the kitchen table was spent!”, he said.